16-01 2021 18:31
wrote:
Michael was one of the most incredible humans I know. He had the gift of making each and every one of us, lucky enough to know him well, feel like we were deeply worthy, that our ideas were ones to pursue, that we could change the world one step at a time. His love shone through every single conversation.
He was wise beyond words, his presence, his passion and his sense of humour shining through. His unwaivering commitment to the fight against HIV, in particular his sharp, clear and powerful words on stigma and self-stigma – he had no tolerance for non-tolerance in this world. He had a way of summarising an issue that touched the deepest part of our minds and our hearts, uniting us instantly in solidarity. His sense of justice, compassion and his fearlessless in speaking to truth, even when unpleasant, was truly breathtaking.
He was and always will be the father of HIV and global health in Ireland each year since 2006 guiding us gently, but firmly, to shine an important spotlight on the many facets of HIV. Making sure that we continued to learn and to grow and that Ireland’s commitment to HIV never waivered. Every year after hearing him speak, each of us came away feeling renewed energy and renewed determination.
Michael advocated tirelessly and with incredible energy for all of his 92 years for young people, for women and to achieve human rights for all. He loved music and was particularly moved by the very special tribute during his lecture last month prepared by the Youth Choirs in Zimbabwe and Ireland – he loved the hope and inspiration young people embody [listen here: http://fathermichaelkellyzambia.org/?p=887]
He last spoke on World AIDS Day – 1 December 2020. He was feeling well and had a powerful message for all of us. He asked us to “stand together in the face of the unprecedented global crises of HIV, environmental destruction, climate change and COVID”. He said “there is one force these crises cannot withstand – the force of our common determination not to let them bring us down”. He implored us to “bond ourselves together in solidarity against these forces that are destroying our world”. [view his keynote address here: http://fathermichaelkellyzambia.org/?p=871]
He asked us again and again to ‘Leave no-one behind’. Michael, we will not leave you behind. We, and I, will continue to do more, and do better and be guided by the bright light you shone and continue to shine in our world.
You were one of my dearest and wisest friends and I have no words to describe the loss of your presence in my life.
With all my love, Nadine
16-01 2021 18:31
wrote:
Michael was one of the most incredible humans I know. He had the gift of making each and every one of us, lucky enough to know him well, feel like we were deeply worthy, that our ideas were ones to pursue, that we could change the world one step at a time. His love shone through every single conversation.
He was wise beyond words, his presence, his passion and his sense of humour shining through. His unwaivering commitment to the fight against HIV, in particular his sharp, clear and powerful words on stigma and self-stigma – he had no tolerance for non-tolerance in this world. He had a way of summarising an issue that touched the deepest part of our minds and our hearts, uniting us instantly in solidarity. His sense of justice, compassion and his fearlessless in speaking to truth, even when unpleasant, was truly breathtaking.
He was and always will be the father of HIV and global health in Ireland each year since 2006 guiding us gently, but firmly, to shine an important spotlight on the many facets of HIV. Making sure that we continued to learn and to grow and that Ireland’s commitment to HIV never waivered. Every year after hearing him speak, each of us came away feeling renewed energy and renewed determination.
Michael advocated tirelessly and with incredible energy for all of his 92 years for young people, for women and to achieve human rights for all. He loved music and was particularly moved by the very special tribute during his lecture last month prepared by the Youth Choirs in Zimbabwe and Ireland – he loved the hope and inspiration young people embody [listen here: http://fathermichaelkellyzambia.org/?p=887]
He last spoke on World AIDS Day – 1 December 2020. He was feeling well and had a powerful message for all of us. He asked us to “stand together in the face of the unprecedented global crises of HIV, environmental destruction, climate change and COVID”. He said “there is one force these crises cannot withstand – the force of our common determination not to let them bring us down”. He implored us to “bond ourselves together in solidarity against these forces that are destroying our world”. [view his keynote address here: http://fathermichaelkellyzambia.org/?p=871]
He asked us again and again to ‘Leave no-one behind’. Michael, we will not leave you behind. We, and I, will continue to do more, and do better and be guided by the bright light you shone and continue to shine in our world.
You were one of my dearest and wisest friends and I have no words to describe the loss of your presence in my life.
With all my love, Nadine
